TVCA appoints new chief executive

Tom Bryant, an accomplished local Government professional with over 20 years of experience, has been appointed as chief executive of the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA).

Tom, who has served as interim chief executive of the TVCA since March, and was previously the director of infrastructure, was confirmed permanently by the Combined Authority’s cabinet on June 27. 

Tom joined the TVCA in 2019 as head of transport, overseeing a multi-hundred-million-pound programme across the region. 

Before that, he gained more than a decade of experience leading major projects at North Yorkshire County Council.

Tom said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to be appointed chief executive. 

“Our organisation has been a real engine for change during my time here – and I’m determined that continues.

“I’m also fully committed to ensuring that we continue to listen and improve in response to our Best Value Notice. 

“We want to work more closely together with all our stakeholders and partner organisations to get better and, ultimately, achieve and deliver the best we possibly can for the people of the Tees Valley.

“We have vital projects running now – and more crucial work coming down the line in the next few years as devolution deepens. 

“I want to see us leading that charge and I’m committed to leading our talented staff on this journey.”

Tom’s appointment comes as part of a new senior management structure that separates leadership of TVCA and the South Tees Development Corporation.

At the same meeting, Craig Peacock, former TVCA head of marketing and communications, was appointed director of inward investment and marketing following a similar external recruitment process.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “We’ve some absolutely vital projects coming in the next few years – from Net Zero Teesside, making sure we deliver our brilliant £1 billion transport programme, and making the right skills and opportunities available for our young people to stay here and go far.

“Tom is the right person to have in place to deliver the improvements needed and drive our organisation forward. 

“We’ve had a very rigorous process – with input and involvement from across the political spectrum, and from organisations and people from all parts of our region. 

“Again, I’d like to thank everyone who took part and worked together with us.

“I’m looking forward to working even more closely with Tom in his permanent position to ensure we deliver our vision and bring even more progress to Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →